Haven't traded a car or vehicle in over 20 years. I sell them myself using KKB as a guideline for individual to indvidual. Just sold a Gr Cherokee LTD Jeep, got top dollar and what I asked. I don't deal with fast talking car sales folks and tell them up front not to screw around. If they do, I walk in a heartbeat.

The dealership and their salespeople are going to screw us. It's only a matter of how much or how little, they screw us. Do the people in car sales really think their lousy reputation was just pulled out of thin air? It is well-earned. When you deal with a car salesperson, expect to be lied to, have facts withheld, and be cheated. You will not be disapointed.

The need for cleaning your car before selling it is common enough that dealerships spoof it in their tv commercials.

There was a local car dealer's funny commercial a few years back where he flashes between two cars comparing the benefits of his used cars to the drawbacks of buying 'another' dealer's car. This one always touted how they inspect and warranty thier used cars; [first car] "This one comes with a Buy Bob waranty. [flash to second similar car, looking like a kid at Christmas] And this one comes with french fries under seat!"

Why are car salesmen always considered crooks. Don't folks understand that they have to buy your car at a wholesale price and sell it at a retail price. It's called business. If you were a car salesman and bought a car for 7000 but could only sell it for 7000 you would be out of business in a hot minute. They are not out to 'gyp' you but provide a service and have a job. If you want close to a retail price....sell it on your own.